dcade_42

I spent a single season working as Hannibal Lecter in a Six Flags Haunted House. I never touched, yelled at, or even moved quickly toward anyone. I can't say I never startled anyone, but that's because some people go through almost with blinders on, they are so scared. It startles them when they notice something they should have noticed sooner.

I'd say more than 90% of the people were scared to some degree rather than startled, counting people who were not screaming but visibly on high alert and trying to just get through my room. I found eye contact and body language were what got people best.

Some people were scared of me before I even turned my head toward them. Most though would take quick and cautious steps through with their group until I could catch one with some eye contact. That would usually lock that person up in fear, holding up the whole group who would all instantly look at my face. Just a second or so each, darting between the group members' eyes, and they would be nearly helpless until I turned away.

That worked for me. I know others had great success with just creepy movements. It was a ton of fun, and I'm one of the 10% or so who doesn't get scared in haunted houses.

Buddhist buffets in Taiwan are half the reason I want to move there. 10/10 would recommend.

I also recommend pan grilling in a lightly oiled pan for 3-5 minutes a side med to med-high heat. Brush the upside with oil and season it well with any salty seasoning you like, repeat that when you flip the first time, flip once more just to assure the seasoning is cooked on. You'll get a feeling for how it feels when it's "done." Not leathery, but has a nice crust. I learned this from Chinese Cooking Demystified, and we eat it a lot at our house, 1-2 times a week. Works well for most firm tofu, even the stuff you find in most US grocery stores.

Nice AMA. Thanks for doing it.

You can also judge his level of false motivation by the tone of those sounds.

Kill.

Source: The Eagle in my Ooh Rah tat whispered in my ear.